The Mystical Nature of the Relics

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 Before delving into the nature of Buddha relics, it is important to note that this essay is based on my personal experiences and understanding, as well as knowledge drawn from the Pāli Canon. According to the Canon, at the final day of the Buddha Sāsana (the dispensation of the Buddha), all Buddha relics will assemble under the Bodhi Tree. It is foretold that the Buddha’s body will reappear, and he will deliver a final Dhamma talk. However, during this momentous event, ordinary humans will be unable to perceive the Buddha. Only certain Devas (celestial beings) and spiritually advanced individuals will witness and hear this ultimate discourse. This narrative is rooted in the teachings of the Pāli Canon; the original Pāli reference is crucial for scholarly exploration.



The Nature of Buddha Relics

The behavior of Buddha relics is deeply enigmatic and reflects their sacred nature. First, if a location where relics are enshrined is no longer treated with genuine reverence—not merely through external offerings (pūjā), but through internal worship and meditation—the relics tend to relocate. They are believed to move, guided by Devas, to places where true devotion exists. This phenomenon highlights the intricate connection between the relics and their guardianship.

Secondly, despite the most advanced preservation efforts—such as high-security systems and modern technology in museums or stupas—the relics can inexplicably disappear. This reinforces the belief that their existence transcends material safeguards, adhering instead to spiritual laws.

Another aspect concerns individuals who are entrusted with relics, whether through familial inheritance or by personal resolution (ādhiṭṭhāna, or perfection of resolution). If these individuals act disrespectfully—through speech, actions, or thoughts—they may feel a sense of misfortune or unease. In such cases, the relics may leave their possession, often through formal transfer to another custodian who embodies the requisite respect and reverence. These occurrences illustrate the intricate interplay of moral conduct, spiritual worthiness, and the guardianship of relics.

In india there is one tooth relics was disappear, in British museum have also have this experience records ,and the periods daily memories records of Charles Mission and others finder of the stupas , they wrote this record of experience of disappearing of the relics with unknown cause .This case is detailed in Custodians of the Buddha’s Sacred Relics, Vol. 1.

My Journey with Relics

Since childhood, I have been entrusted with Buddha relics through various means, including handovers by individuals, retrieval from stupas, and even inexplicable circumstances. These experiences have deepened my understanding of their sacred nature and their connection to the spiritual realm.

Over the years, I have encountered three extraordinary individuals with supernatural wisdom regarding relics. One gentleman from Malaysia, an anchorite, and a layperson from Myanmar could perceive the spiritual essence of relics. They demonstrated abilities to identify the origins of the relics, such as the specific parts of the Buddha’s body they came from or the name of the original stupa where they were enshrined. These interactions have enriched my knowledge and affirmed the mystical qualities of relics.

The Relics’ Aspirations

Another fascinating phenomenon involves relics with a collective intention to participate in the final days of the Buddha Sāsana. These relics, believed to be “cliquish,” are thought to gather under the Bodhi Tree to fulfill their ultimate purpose. I have encountered such relics and continue to research this intriguing aspect.

Additionally, I have had dreams in which Devas or guardianship beings associated with the relics conveyed messages. These dreams included revelations about future events, guidance on unclaimed relics, and instructions to retrieve them from specific locations. Such experiences underscore the profound spiritual connection between relics and their caretakers.

The nature of Buddha relics is a complex and mystical subject that intertwines spiritual devotion, moral conduct, and divine guardianship. My personal journey with relics has been a profound exploration of their sacred qualities and the responsibilities of stewardship. This ongoing experience continues to inspire reverence, curiosity, and a deep sense of connection to the spiritual realm.




 Remark ! I am an ordinary monk with no supernatural powers. I'm sharing this based on my experience. I respect your rights and won't argue.

Bhikkhu Indasoma

Researcher ,Author and Trainer 

24th Jan 2025 ,11:11PM

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